Application-centric user interface techniques

ABSTRACT

Various application-centric user interface techniques are described. A user can easily launch, add, or update applications. An application-centric activity center can be presented as part of a user interface for an operating system shell. A file defining metadata for an application can be defined. The techniques can be applied to game-related software.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technical field relates to human-computer interaction, such as whena computer user interacts with user interfaces presented by software.

COPYRIGHT AUTHORIZATION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

Since the beginning of the computer age, various techniques ofhuman-computer interaction have been developed and implemented to helpmake computers easier to use. For example, the now common graphical userinterface (“GUI”) paradigm has made selecting programs easier because auser can point to an icon related to a desired program, rather thanhaving to type in the program's name.

However, with the advent of ever more complex computing machinery hascome seemingly more complex graphical user interfaces offering manylevels of choices. A user can be presented with so many levels ofchoices in a user interface that finding the desired option becomes anunwelcome chore. As a result, a user may tend to avoid choices that mayin fact be desirable. The large number of choices thus serves as abarrier for the user.

SUMMARY

The described technologies can provide various user interfacearrangements and related functionality. For example, variousapplication-centric user interface techniques can be employed.

In some examples, an application-centric user interface is presented toa user. In some examples, a user can add, update, or launch programsfrom the application-centric portion.

In some examples, the application-centric user interface includes anactivity center by which a user can perform various actions related tothe applications.

In a described implementation, the applications include game-relatedsoftware. For example, a user can be presented with the available gamesand related information. In some examples, multiplayer online games canbe launched.

Additional features and advantages will be made apparent from thefollowing detailed description of illustrated embodiments, whichproceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are screen shots of exemplary application-centric userinterfaces.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are screen shots of exemplary application tilesfor use in an application-centric user interface, such as the userinterfaces of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are screen shots of alternative exemplaryapplication-centric user interfaces.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing relationships between pages in anapplication-centric user interface.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are screen shots of exemplary detail pages presentinginformation for an application.

FIG. 6 is a screen shot of an exemplary application-centric userinterface presented as part of a user interface for an operating systemshell.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing relationships between folderspresented as part of a user interface for an operating system shell.

FIG. 8 shows contents of an exemplary application metadata file.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing relationships between an operatingsystem shell, application metadata files, and applications.

FIG. 10 is a Venn diagram showing relationships between applicationmetadata files and specialized application metadata files.

FIG. 11 is a screen shot of an exemplary review of an application fromwhich a an application metadata file can be acquired.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an exemplary method for achievingapplication installation via an application metadata file.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an exemplary method for accommodatinglegacy applications in an application activity center.

FIG. 14 is a screen shot showing an exemplary detail page for a game ina game activity center.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an exemplary multiplayer online gamescenario.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing exemplary relationships betweeninstant messaging, the operating system shell, and a game application.

FIG. 17 is a screen shot of a user interface for achieving an exemplarymultiplayer online game scenario, such as that shown in FIG. 15.

FIGS. 18A and 18B are shots of exemplary application tiles for use in agame-centric user interface, such as game-centric implementations of theuser interfaces of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an exemplary computer system.

FIGS. 20-26 are a programming language excerpt specifying an exemplaryapplication programming interface for achieving application installationvia the technologies described herein.

FIGS. 27-31 specify an exemplary XML schema for use with applicationmetadata.

FIGS. 32-35 specify an exemplary XML schema for use with applicationmetadata with specialized game-related metadata.

FIGS. 36-38 specify exemplary metadata for a game application accordingto the schema of FIGS. 32-35.

FIGS. 39-41 specify an exemplary XML schema for use with an applicationmanifest.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Example 1 Exemplary System Overview

Various of the examples described herein can make use ofapplication-centric user interface techniques. With the advent ofever-more complex user interfaces, application-centric user interfacetechniques can avoid the frustration associated with being unable toeasily find applications and perform tasks for the applications. Forexample, application-centric user interface techniques can treatapplications in a special way and include an area of the user interfacelimited to applications (e.g., other types of items, such as files, arenot listed in the area). Such an approach can be an improvement over asystem that merely presents applications as part of a file system thatincludes a myriad of other items, such as files.

In addition, various of the techniques described herein can lead to amore rich presentation of applications, such as when presented by anoperating system shell. In this way, an application publisher cancustomize their application's shell presentation. The techniques canaccommodate a variety of applications from different applicationpublishers.

Example 2 Exemplary User Interface Presentations

FIG. 1A shows a screen shot of an exemplary application-centric userinterface 100. In the example, there are two or more application tiles122 which display representations of respective applications in a pane120. Items displayed in the pane 120 can be limited to representationsof applications (e.g., representations of other items or files do notappear).

FIG. 1B shows a screen shot of another exemplary application-centricuser interface 100. In the example, in addition to the two or moreapplication tiles 122, there are the recent application pane 130, thetask pane 140, and the information pane 150. An implementation may useone or more of the illustrated panes 130, 140, 150.

The most recently launched application pane 130 can show tiles for oneor more (e.g., three) of the most recently launched applications. Or,some other mechanism can be used to denote the most recently launchedapplication(s).

The task pane 140 presents one or more tasks that can be performed forthe user interface, such as navigating to different pages within theuser interface. Some tasks may be application-specific, while others maynot operate on a particular application. In the example, a “view wishlist” option is shown. When activated (e.g., by clicking), the “viewwish list” option navigates to a page showing a list of one or moreapplications that a user has designated as being in a “wish list.” Forexample, a user may be considering purchasing such applications or havealready decided that such applications are desired and will be purchasedupon release.

The information pane 150 can present one or more links 122, which whenactivated (e.g., by clicking), navigate to a detail page for theapplication indicated by the link. The links can be limited to thosehaving fresh information, such as new information made available in thepast n days (e.g., configurable by a user).

In any of the examples, areas of the user interface shown as panes mayor may not be a visual boundary between the panes. Thus, the panes mayalternatively be areas of the user interface without visual boundaries.Additional, fewer, or other items can be included. For example, a menubar can present additional features or options.

Example 3 Exemplary Tiles

To facilitate a rich presence for applications in a user interface, theexemplary tiles described herein can present a graphical representationof an application and other information related to the application. FIG.2A is a screen shot of an exemplary application tile 200 for use in anapplication-centric user interface, such as the user interfaces of FIGS.1A and 1B. In the example, the application's name 210, a graphical(e.g., iconic, photographic, or artistic) representation 220 of theapplication, and a publisher name 230 are included in the tile 200.Alternatively, fewer, additional, or different items can be shown.

FIG. 2B is a screen shot of an alternative exemplary application tile200 for use in an application-centric user interface, such as the userinterfaces of FIGS. 1A and 1B. In the example, the application's name210, a graphical (e.g., iconic, photographic, or artistic)representation 220 of the application, and a publisher name 230 areincluded in the tile 200. Also included is an indication of a date forthe application (e.g., when the application was last run or when it waspublished) 240 and a link 250 to details (e.g., a detail page) of theapplication. Alternatively, fewer, additional, or different items can beshown.

FIG. 2C is a screen shot of an alternative exemplary application tile200 for use in an application-centric user interface, such as the userinterfaces of FIGS. 1A and 1B. In the example, the application's name210, a graphical (e.g., iconic, photographic, or artistic)representation 220 of the application, and a publisher name 230 areincluded in the tile 200. Also included is an information link 270indicating that new information is available from the publisher of theapplication. Upon activation of the information link the new informationcan be presented. Alternatively, fewer, additional, or different itemscan be shown.

FIG. 2D is a screen shot of an alternative exemplary application tile200 for use in an application-centric user interface, such as the userinterfaces of FIGS. 1A and 1B. In the example, the application's name210 and a graphical (e.g., iconic, photographic, or artistic)representation 220 of the application are included in the tile 200. Alsoincluded is an indication 280 of one or more tasks that can be performedfor the application. Such an indication, when activated, initiatesperformance of the task. The indication 280 of a task can be included inany of the tiles described herein and can be used to initiate any of thetasks described herein. Alternatively, fewer, additional, or differentitems can be shown.

In any of the examples, activation (e.g., clicking or double clicking)of the graphical representation 220 can launch (e.g., execute) therespective application.

Example 4 Alternative Exemplary User Interface Presentations

FIG. 3A shows a screen shot 300 of an alternative exemplaryapplication-centric user interface. In the example, a task pane 322shows one or more tasks 352A, 352B, 352N that can be performed on theapplications represented by the representations 342A, 342B, 342N. Forexample, a user can select one of the applications 342A, 342B, 342N andthen select a task 352A, 352B, 352N for the application (e.g., byclicking). Alternatively, fewer, additional, or different items can beshown. If desired, the items displayed in the pane 332 can be limited torepresentations of applications (e.g., representations of other items orfiles do not appear).

FIG. 3B shows a screen shot 300 of another alternative exemplaryapplication-centric user interface. The example is similar to FIG. 3A,but also includes an activity center tasks pane 362 (e.g., similar tothe task pane 140 of FIG. 1) and the information pane 372 (e.g., similarto the information pane 150 of FIG. 1).

In any of the examples, activation (e.g., clicking or double clicking)of the graphical representation 342A, 342B, 342N can launch (e.g.,execute) the respective application. The representations 342A, 342B,342N of the applications can be accompanied by information about theapplication (e.g., application name and the like). Alternatively, fewer,additional, or different items can be shown.

Example 5 Alternative Exemplary User Interface Presentations

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing relationships between pages in anapplication-centric user interface. For purposes of discussion, the userinterface presentations 402, 412, 414, 416 are called “pages.” When theapplication-centric user interface is first entered, a user is presentedwith the welcome page 402. Upon activating an item (e.g., the detailsitem 250 of FIG. 2) for navigating to information about a particularapplication (e.g., an application detail page), the respectiveapplication page 412, 414, 416 is presented. The user can then navigateback to the welcome page 402 from any of the application pages 412, 414,416 (e.g., by activating an item presented on the page 412, 414, 416).As shown, two or more application pages 412, 414, 416 can be included.Collectively, the pages are sometimes called an “application activitycenter” because various activities related to applications can beaccomplished via the pages.

Additional pages not shown but possibly implemented include anapplication wish list. Further, few, or different pages can beimplemented. The welcome page 402 can take the form of any of theapplication-centric user interfaces shown above (e.g., the interface 100of FIG. 1).

Example 6 Exemplary Application Detail Pages

FIG. 5A is a screen shot of exemplary detail page 500 presentinginformation for an application. Such a detail page 500 can be displayedwhen a detail page for a respective application is requested by a user(e.g., by activating the details item 250 of FIG. 2) and can be relatedto the welcome page 1902 as shown in FIG. 4). In the example, arepresentation (e.g., iconic, photographic, or artistic) of theapplication 512 is shown along with information 514 (e.g., applicationname) about the application. In addition, one or more task items 518 areshown. By activating a task item (e.g., by clicking on it), theassociated task (e.g., any of the tasks described herein) is performed.

FIG. 5B shows a screen shot of an alternative exemplary detail page 500presenting information for an application. Such a detail page 500 can bedisplayed when a detail page for a respective application is requestedby a user (e.g., by activating the details item 250 of FIG. 2) and canbe related to the welcome page 1902 as shown in FIG. 19). The pane 510shows various items functioning as described for FIG. 5B. In addition,the detail page 500 includes a fresh information pane 520 showing aninformation link 524, which, when activated, navigates to the indicatedinformation.

In addition, the detail page 500 includes an installation details pane530. For example, the program's file location, installation size, dateinstalled, copyright information, preferred operating system, patchhistory, or some combination thereof can be displayed. Alternatively,fewer, additional, or different items can be shown. Applicationpublishers can create additional custom categories, which may or may notinclude publisher-created object code modules that provide additionalinformation relevant to the application for the user's benefit.

Also, the detail page 500 includes a saved documents pane 540, which hasrepresentations 542A, 542B, and 542C of saved documents for theapplication. Activation of the representation opens the document (e.g.,and launches the application if appropriate).

Finally, in the example, the capability rating system details pane 550shows the recommended capability rating for the application, the minimumcapability rating for the application, and the user computer'scapability rating. The capability rating gives an easily-understoodrating roughly indicating the computing resources required to executethe application. In this way, a user can be forewarned that anapplication will not run or will not run well on the user computer.

In any of the examples, activation (e.g., clicking or double clicking)of the graphical representation 512 can launch (e.g., execute) therespective application.

Example 7 Exemplary Application-Centric User Interface in OperatingSystem Shell

Any of the user interfaces shown in the examples can be presented aspart of a user interface for an operating system shell. For example, ifthe operating system shell depicts the file system of the computer, theuser interfaces can be presented as a part of the file system.

FIG. 6 is a screen shot of an exemplary application-centric userinterface 624 presented as part of a user interface 600 for an operatingsystem shell. In the example, an operating system shell presents theapplication-centric portion of the user interface 624 in a window on thedesktop 602, along with a pane 642 and an activatable item 652.

The other windows 632, 634 may be presented by the operating systemshell or by applications. The operating system shell may present otherwindows, such as those for navigating throughout the file system orconfiguring the operating system.

Example 8 Exemplary Relationships of Application-Centric User Interfacein Operating System Shell

FIG. 7 is a block diagram 700 showing relationships between folders 702,712, 714, 716 presented as part of a user interface by the operatingsystem shell. In the example, a user can navigate from the “My Computer”folder 702 to the “My Applications” folder 712 or any of the otherfolders 714, 716. The folders can be customized per user, so that theoperating system will present a different set of applications for eachuser. If desired, an application can be simultaneously installed acrossusers so that it shows up in more than one user's folder.

In practice, the folders may be shown as iconic or list representationsof the items in the folders, or in the case of the application folder712, a more rich presentation can be presented as shown in any of theexamples herein.

Example 9 Exemplary Application Metadata File

FIG. 8 shows contents of an exemplary application metadata file. Theapplication metadata file can store information about an application andcan be used when presenting the application's information in theapplication-centric user interface.

Thus, the file 800 can include the application's name, a name of theapplication's publisher, a location to find link data for presentinginformational links, capability rating system information, references tographical representations of the application, numerous other items, orsome combination thereof.

If desired, the file 800 can follow mark-up (e.g., XML) conventions. Thefile 800 can be associated with a signature to authenticate origin andintegrity of the file 800. Additionally, the file 800 can includeinformation (e.g., hyperlinks) for previewing (e.g., acquiring a demoversion) or purchasing the application.

Example 10 Exemplary Relationships between an Operating System Shell,Application Metadata Files, and Applications

FIG. 9 is a block diagram 900 showing exemplary relationships between anoperating system shell 910, a database of application metadata files920, and a plurality of applications 960A, 960B, 960N. The operatingsystem shell 910 can thus present any of the user interfaces describedherein by referring to the application metadata files 920 for theapplications 960A, 960B, 960N. The shell can also configure and launchthe applications 960A, 960B, 960N as desired via the selections receivedfrom a user at the user computer via the user interfaces.

Example 11 Exemplary Relationships between Application Metadata Filesand Specialized Metadata Files

FIG. 10 is a Venn diagram 1000 showing relationships between applicationmetadata files 1010 and specialized application metadata files 1020. Forexample, the specialized application metadata files can qualify asapplication metadata files (e.g., follow the same schema) but alsoinclude additional information specific to the specialized application(e.g., games).

Example 12 Exemplary Acquisition of Application Metadata Files

Application metadata files can be acquired in a variety of ways. Forexample, if an application is provided via a CD-ROM, the applicationmetadata file can be stored thereon and copied therefrom. If anapplication is downloaded via a network connection, the file can bedownloaded as part of the installation package. Or, as described herein,the application metadata file can be acquired without installing theapplication, such as when adding the application to a wish list or foran application hosted on a remote web site. In some cases, theapplication metadata file can be incorporated into or referred to by anapplication manifest. Such a manifest can be provided to indicate theitems within a software package.

FIG. 11 is a screen shot of an exemplary page 1100 (e.g., web page)having a review of an application from which an application metadatafile can be acquired. In the example, a hyperlink 1116 is presented aspart of the page 1100. Activation of the hyperlink 1116 results inacquisition of the application metadata file (e.g., the file is storedin the database 920 and added to a wish list).

The application metadata file can be identified by a special fileextension (e.g., ADF, GDF) or other mechanism. An HTML tag in thehyperlink can indicate that the file is to be added to a wish list. Thefile can be accompanied by a digital signature so that the origin andintegrity of the file can be authenticated.

Example 13 Exemplary Use of Metadata Files to Install Software

Any of the application metadata files described herein can be used toinstall software. FIG. 12 shows an exemplary method 1200 for achievingapplication installation via an application metadata file.

At 1210, the application metadata file is acquired. As described herein,the file can be acquired in a variety of ways.

At 1220, the application is evaluated. The operating system shell canfacilitate evaluation by a user by providing links to information aboutthe application or the online community, even before the application hasbeen purchased or installed.

At 1230, the application is purchased. Billing information for theapplication software purchase can be collected electronically, and thepurchase can be achieved by activating (e.g., clicking) on an item,which can operate with reference to information in the respectiveapplication metadata file.

At 1240, the application is installed. Installation can proceedaccording to a variety of methods, including standard ones offered bythe operating system.

The method 1200 can also be applied to upgrades. For example, an upgradecan be evaluated before purchasing. In some cases, an upgrade may be ofsuch a nature as to be considered a separate application (e.g., a majorupgrade).

The described method 1200 can also be described as a method formarketing software. By presenting the user with an easy way to add arepresentation of the application to the operating system shell beforethe software is purchased, the user can more easily become part of theonline community related to the application. In this way, the user cancollect relevant information when deciding whether or when to purchasethe application or an upgrade. Further, the application publisher cankeep in contact with the user via informational links. In this way,targeted online marketing can be achieved without deluging the onlinecommunity with mass email campaigns.

Example 14 Exemplary Accommodation of Legacy Applications

Upon installation of an operating system shell supporting the describedapplication-centric user interface techniques (e.g., when upgrading theoperating system), there may be one or more applications already presenton the computer. Such applications may not be present in the interfacesunless manually added by the user.

Such applications are sometimes called “legacy” applications. The usermay be very interested in such applications, so if they do not appear inthe proper user interfaces, the user may be disappointed and not takeadvantage of the functionality described herein.

To facilitate accommodation of legacy application, various methods canbe used. FIG. 13 shows one such method 1300. The method 1300 can beperformed by the operating system in the background as otherapplications are running. Over time, the method 1300 can identify theapplications on the computer. For example, if the operating systemcontains a routine that scans the files in the file system, the method1300 can run as part of the operating system routine. Alternatively, themethod 1300 can be run all at once.

At 1310, a file is found during a scan. Files considered can be limitedto executables. Then, at 1320, it is determined whether the file matchesa fingerprint stored as part of the operating system. A fingerprintingtechnique can be used so that the application is verified to be aparticular application without its being an exact copy. If a match isindicated, details for the file (e.g., location and associatedapplication metadata file name) can be stored in a list. Subsequently,the list can be considered (e.g., when an application activity center islaunched or resumed), and the application metadata files can be added(e.g., after appropriate configuration, if any) to the database (e.g.,the database 920).

The described fingerprints and associated application metadata files canbe provided as part of the operating system, an operating systemupgrade, or provided on a remote Internet resource, such as a webserver. The latter case provides flexibility in providing ongoingupdates to the database of information for legacy applications. Forexample, application metadata files can be generated for the morepopular application titles so that they eventually appear in theapplication activity center. Any number of other techniques can be used.

Example 15 Exemplary Application to Games

Any of the technologies described herein can be applied with advantageto games. An activity center limited to games (e.g., not depicting otherapplications) can be implemented. Games can be accommodated via aspecialized application metadata file. Such a file can includeadditional information about the game, such as how to achievemultiplayer online game scenarios.

Further, when implemented as part of a user interface for the operatingsystem shell, a game activity center can provide an easy way for usersto manage and launch games. For example, the operating system shell canpresent a “my games” folder by which the game activity center ispresented. Still further, instant messaging functionality can beincorporated into the game activity center. And, if the operating systemsupports contact objects, multiplayer online games can be initiated viareference to the contact objects.

Various other game-specific functionality can be incorporated. Forexample, an application tile can include a link for playing the mostrecently saved game. In a detail page, the n (e.g., 3) most recentlysaved games can be portrayed graphically (e.g., via a mini screen shotdepicting the game situation when it was saved).

Example 16 Exemplary Game Detail Page

FIG. 14 is a screen shot showing an exemplary detail page 1400 for agame in a game activity center and can be used as an application detailpage in any of the technologies described herein. In the example, a gamedetail pane 1430 includes a graphic (e.g., iconic, photographic, orartistic) representation 1412 of the game, the game's name, a commentfrom the publisher, the name of the publisher, the publisher's web site,the date the game was installed, the size of the game, and the date thegame was last played. Such information can be stored in the game'smetadata file (e.g., a specialized application metadata file) orotherwise stored or acquired. For example, certain often-changinginformation (e.g., date the game was installed and date the game waslast played) can be stored outside the game's metadata file. The size ofthe game can be determined when the game is executed.

In addition, the pane 1430 includes an information links pane 1420,which includes an information link 1424, which, when activated (e.g., byclicking), navigates to the indicated information.

A task pane 1440 shows various tasks that can be achieved for theapplication (e.g., by activating the task item). For example, the gamecan be played by activating the button 1444. Other tasks include:continue the last saved game, play multi-player, play with buddies,review and install updates (e.g., upgrades or updates to data files),view saved games, search for new games, find similar games, visit anonline forum for the game, visit an online community for the game, joinan online chat room for the game, change or uninstall the game, go tothe game's (official) webpage, check compatibility information for thegame, check security information for the game, view usage history (e.g.,when played, how long played, how often played), and show program files.

In practice, additional, fewer, or different items may be shown. In anyof the examples, activation (e.g., clicking or double clicking) of thegraphical representation 1412 can launch (e.g., execute) the respectiveapplication.

Example 17 Exemplary Multiplayer Online Game Scenario

FIG. 15 shows a block diagram 1500 illustrating an exemplary multiplayeronline game scenario. In the example, the user computer 1510, and one ormore buddy computers 1520A, 1520B, 1520N are in contact with the gameserver 1560 via the network 1540. Respective human players can be at theuser and buddy computers. In this way, the players can participate inthe same game to compete or cooperate in the game. The number of userscan far exceed that shown. In some scenarios, one of the user or buddycomputers can serve as the game server.

Contact information for the buddy computers 1520A, 1520B, 1520N can bestored on a buddy list. When determining whether buddies are playing aparticular game or any games, the list can be consulted. If desired,consent can be acquired before adding a contact to a buddy list.

Although multiplayer online games have become very popular, they canstill remain somewhat difficult to start. Various technologies describedherein can simplify multiplayer online game user interface operation.

Example 18 Exemplary Relationships for Achieving Multiplayer Online GameScenarios

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing exemplary relationships 1600 forachieving multiplayer online game scenarios. In the example, theoperating system shell 1610 interfaces with instant messagingfunctionality 1630 and a game application 1620. Also, if desired, theoperating system shell 1610 can interface with one or more contactobjects 1640 (e.g., stored in a database accessible by the operatingsystem shell 1610).

The operating system shell 1610 is operable to interface with a user(e.g., via the operating system shell or an interface for the instantmessaging functionality 1630) to receive directions regardingmultiplayer game scenarios. The shell 1610 can then provide appropriateinformation to the game application 1620 to initiate or join themultiplayer online game.

In some cases, a multiplayer online game can be initiated or joined viathe contact object 1640 (e.g., a user interface depicting informationabout an individual, such as a friend or buddy).

Example 19 Exemplary User Interface for Achieving Multiplayer OnlineGame Scenarios

FIG. 17 is a screen shot of a user interface 1700 for achieving anexemplary multiplayer online game scenario, such as that shown in FIG.15. In the example, the user interface 1700 includes a user pane 1710,which includes a depiction 1712 (e.g., photograph) of the user of thecomputer, the user's name 1714, an indication 1716 of whether the useris online or not, and a motto of the user (e.g., a brief message toidentify the user's personality among buddies or newcomers).

The example also includes a chat pane 1720, whereby the user can hold anonline chat session (e.g., via messenger functionality) with otherpotential players. Text can be entered into the box 1722 and the button1724 activated to send a message via the chat session.

The invited buddies pane 1730 includes depictions (e.g., photographs) ofthose buddies (e.g., remote users) whom the user has invited to play.Also included is the buddy's name and a quality rating of the buddy'sconnection (e.g., indicative of whether a dialup or broadband connectionis available for the buddy). Additional buddies can be invited via thebutton 1732. In the example, the user is hosting the game (e.g.,controls who is invited to the game). Other scenarios are possible.

The example further includes a game pane 1740 which displays a function1742 and a list of games 1744.

Finally, a ready button 1752 can be activated by the user (or buddies attheir respective computers) to indicate that they are ready to beginplaying. Upon pressing the launch button 1756, the game is begun withthe displayed buddies in the buddy pane 1730. Information in the gamemetadata file can be consulted to determine how to launch the game(e.g., how to submit the buddies for the online game).

The user interface 1700 can be arrived at in a variety of ways. Forexample, a game detail page can present a link (e.g., “play multiplayer”or “play with buddies”) which, when activated, presents the interface1700. Or, the user may be chatting with a buddy via the messagingsoftware and be presented with an option by which the user interface1700 is presented. Finally, an option can be presented when showing alist of buddies (e.g., in a contact list represented by contact objects)by which the user interface 1700 is presented. The associated playerscan be automatically listed in the buddy pane 1730 if desired.

Before the interface 1700 is presented, another user interface can bepresented (e.g., “Who do you want to play this game with”) by which auser selects buddies. Such a user interface can present variouscontact-related options (e.g., “my contacts,” “company directory,”“family address book,” “recent contacts,” “cell phone contacts,”filters, or some combination thereof).

Example 20 Exemplary Rich Presence Via Content Rating System

In any of the game examples described herein, games can be associatedvia content rating in a content rating system. For example, a game canbe rated as acceptable for all audiences, or for mature audiences only.The system can accommodate various content rating conventions (e.g.,from different countries).

A user (e.g., with an administrator password) can configure the systemso that certain users are designated as to play games of only certainspecified content ratings. For example, a parent can specify that achild can play only games rated for “all audiences.”

Example 21 Exemplary Rich Presence Via Capability Rating System

In any of the examples described herein, applications can be associatedwith a capability rating system (“CRS”). For example, a higher ratingcan indicate that greater computing resources are needed to run thegame. A minimum as well as a recommended capability rating can bespecified for the application. The rating can be compared with a ratingof the user computer to see whether the application will run or run wellon the user computer.

Further, discrete system requirements can be specified for anapplication. For example, certain applications may require specializedhardware (e.g., a graphics tablet or a game controller).

Certain options can be not presented based on the requirementsspecified. In practice, a user will be permitted to launch anapplication even if it only meets the minimum system requirements.

The capability system rating can be presented for the application whenit is added on a wish list. In this way, the user can easily determinewhether or how well the application will run on the user computer.

Example 22 Exemplary Rich Presence for Applications

In any of the examples described herein, combinations of one or more ofthe following can be presented for the application (e.g., as part of thetile for an application, on the application's detail page, or both):System Requirements (e.g., CRS), installation details (e.g., installfolder, size on disk, date installed), patch history (e.g., filtered forthe application), and saved document summary.

Example 23 Exemplary Rich Presence for Games

When presenting games in any of the examples herein, the followingadditional items can be presented: online game(s) currently in progress,saved game summary and preferred input device assignment.

Example 24 Exemplary Rich Presence for Applications

When listing applications in any of the examples herein, the lists canbe ordered by any of a variety of criteria (e.g., by name/alphabetical,by genre, by publisher, by most recently run, size on disk).

When presenting application tiles, the following can be included:link(s) to new publisher content available; link(s) to online forums;link(s) to fan sites. When presenting games, the following can bepresented: a content rating, whether buddies are online, a list ofbuddies online, or some combination thereof. When presenting more thanone game at a time, a summary of games for which updated information isavailable can be presented.

Example 25 Exemplary Application Tiles

For any of the application tiles shown herein, the tiles can includevarious information. The tiles can include any combination of thefollowing information: date installed, release date (emphasize if onwish list), last run, hours run, publisher name and logo, developer nameand logo, installation path, patch history, CRS data, updatenotification, extended description, screenshots, saved documents.

The tiles can include various items which, when activated, perform atask (e.g., the item behaves as a hyperlink or a command. Possible tasksinclude the following: find a new application, review and installupdates, view system capabilities, check for updates, view my wish list,return to welcome page, run, continue last document, view saveddocuments, change/remove, find similar applications, visit forum, joinchat room, register application, view usage history, show installationfolder, check for updates for this application online, email a friendabout this application, buy this application, download the demo.

In addition or alternatively, in implementations accommodating games,the following information can be included: saved games, last played,hours played, number of buddies playing. The following tasks can beincluded: configure parental controls, play, continue last saved game,play with buddies, join an internet or LAN game session, create a newInternet or LAN game, find a new game, view saved games, find similargames, register game online.

Example 26 Exemplary Game-Centric Implementations of Tiles

FIG. 18A is a screen shot of an exemplary application tile 1800 for usein a game-centric user interface, such as game-centric versions the userinterfaces of FIGS. 1A and 1B. In the example, the application's name1810, a graphical (e.g., iconic, photographic, or artistic)representation 1820 of the application, and a publisher name 1830 areincluded in the tile 1800. In addition, the date last played 1840, alink 1850 to details (e.g., a detail page), and a task item 1860 forlaunching a multi-player online game are presented. Alternatively,fewer, additional, or different items can be shown.

FIG. 18B is a screen shot of an alternative exemplary application tile1800 for use in scenarios similar to that of FIG. 18A. The exampleincludes an indication 1880 that buddies are online for the game.Alternatively, fewer, additional, or different items can be shown. Forexample, the task item 1860 could be included.

Example 27 Exemplary Software Update

When a user chooses to update or upgrade software, the functionality canbe integrated with other update functionality on the computer. Forexample, if the computer's software (e.g., operating system) includes adownload manager, the download manager can be invoked to acquire theupdate or upgrade.

Example 28 Exemplary Functionality

A wide variety of functionality can be achieved via the technologiesdescribed herein. In addition to those shown, a user can add anapplication, see a patch history for an application, and see upgrades orother applications.

Example 29 Exemplary Implementation of Application Metadata File

An application metadata file can include any information appropriate forachieving the user interfaces described herein. Table 1 shows exemplaryfields in an application metadata file.

TABLE 1 Exemplary Application Metadata File Fields Tag DescriptionApplicationID A unique identifier (e.g., a GUID) for a release. Nextmajor version of the application gets a new ID ProductFamily ID Anidentifier (e.g., GUID) for a family of products. For example, MICROSOFTMONEY 2002 and MICROSOFT MONEY 2003 would have the same family ID, evenif they have different application ID's. ParentApplicationID Used forapplication suites and expansion packs Information Block of metadata forusers who do not yet have the application installed. Can be used in a“coming soon” presentation. CommonTaskData Information to activatecommon application tasks for the application.

Example 30 Information Links

For those items of the user interface involving information links (e.g.,the pane 150 of FIG. 1, the link 270 of FIG. 2, the information pane 372of FIG. 3, the link 524 of the pane 520 in FIG. 5, and the informationlink 1424 of the pane 1420 of FIG. 14), the information links can beimplemented according to the technologies described in U.S. patentapplication, Evans et al., “PROVIDING INFORMATION LINKS VIA A NETWORK,”which is hereby incorporated herein by reference and filed concurrentlywith the present application.

Example 31 Exemplary Computing Environment

FIG. 19 and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief,general description of a suitable computing environment for animplementation. While the technologies are described in the generalcontext of computer-executable instructions of a computer program thatruns on a computer and/or network device, the technologies may also beimplemented in combination with other program modules. Generally,program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures,etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract datatypes. Moreover, the technologies may be practiced with other computersystem configurations, including multiprocessor systems,microprocessor-based electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers,network appliances, wireless devices, and the like. The extensions canbe practiced in networked computing environments, or on stand-alonecomputers.

With reference to FIG. 19, an exemplary system for implementationincludes a conventional computer 1920 (such as personal computers,laptops, servers, mainframes, and other variety computers) includes aprocessing unit 1921, a system memory 1922, and a system bus 1923 thatcouples various system components including the system memory to theprocessing unit 1921. The processing unit may be any of variouscommercially available processors, including Intel x86, Pentium andcompatible microprocessors from Intel and others, including Cyrix, AMDand Nexgen; Alpha from Digital; MIPS from MIPS Technology, NEC, IDT,Siemens, and others; and the PowerPC from IBM and Motorola. Dualmicroprocessors and other multi-processor architectures also can be usedas the processing unit 1921.

The system bus may be any of several types of bus structure including amemory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus usingany of a variety of conventional bus architectures such as PCI, VESA,AGP, Microchannel, ISA and EISA, to name a few. The system memoryincludes read only memory (ROM) 1924 and random access memory (RAM)1925. A basic input/output system (BIOS), containing the basic routinesthat help to transfer information between elements within the computer1920, such as during start-up, is stored in ROM 1924.

The computer 1920 further includes a hard disk drive 1927, a magneticdisk drive 1928, e.g., to read from or write to a removable disk 1929,and an optical disk drive 1930, e.g., for reading a CD-ROM disk 1931 orto read from or write to other optical media. The hard disk drive 1927,magnetic disk drive 1928, and optical disk drive 1930 are connected tothe system bus 1923 by a hard disk drive interface 1932, a magnetic diskdrive interface 1933, and an optical drive interface 1934, respectively.The drives and their associated computer-readable media providenonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executableinstructions, etc. for the computer 1920. Although the description ofcomputer-readable media above refers to a hard disk, a removablemagnetic disk and a CD, it should be appreciated by those skilled in theart that other types of media which are readable by a computer, such asmagnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, Bernoullicartridges, and the like, may also be used in the exemplary operatingenvironment.

A number of program modules may be stored in the drives and RAM 1925,including an operating system 1935, one or more application programs1936, other program modules 1937, and program data 1938; in addition toan implementation 1956.

A user may enter commands and information into the computer 1920 througha keyboard 1940 and pointing device, such as a mouse 1942. These andother input devices are often connected to the processing unit 1921through a serial port interface 1946 that is coupled to the system bus,but may be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, gameport or a universal serial bus (USB). A monitor 1947 or other type ofdisplay device is also connected to the system bus 1923 via aninterface, such as a video adapter 1948. In addition to the monitor,computers typically include other peripheral output devices (not shown),such as speakers and printers.

The computer 1920 operates in a networked environment using logicalconnections to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer1949. The remote computer 1949 may be a server, a router, a peer deviceor other common network node, and typically includes many or all of theelements described relative to the computer 1920, although only a memorystorage device 1950 has been illustrated. The logical connectionsdepicted include a local area network (LAN) 1951 and a wide area network(WAN) 1952. Such networking environments are commonplace in offices,enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets and the Internet.

When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 1920 isconnected to the local network 1951 through a network interface oradapter 1953. When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer1920 typically includes a modem 1954 or other means for establishingcommunications (e.g., via the LAN 1951 and a gateway or proxy server1955) over the wide area network 1952, such as the Internet. The modem1954, which may be internal or external, is connected to the system bus1923 via the serial port interface 1946. In a networked environment,program modules depicted relative to the computer 1920, or portionsthereof, may be stored in the remote memory storage device. It will beappreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and othermeans of establishing a communications link between the computers may beused.

Example 32 Exemplary Application Programming Interface

FIGS. 20-26 are a programming language excerpt 2000 specifying anexemplary application programming interface (“API”) for achievingapplication installation via the technologies described herein. Thedescribed functions can be used, for example, when installing anapplication. Although the example proceeds with reference to computergames, the technologies can also be applied to applications in general.

Also, although the example code is in the C# language, any number ofother programming languages can be used to implement an applicationprogramming interface. Further, the example shows that the applicationsare incorporated into the operating system shell via a folder named “MyGames,” however other folder names or way of incorporating into theoperating system shell can be used.

Table 2 shows exemplary families of functions for an API, and Table 3shows exemplary functions for an API. In the example, a “supported”title is a non-web, non-legacy title supported by the system; the weband legacy titles are still supported by the system. Additional, fewer,or different functions can be implemented.

TABLE 2 Exemplary API Function Families Function Family DescriptionAddXXX Install an application into “My Games” UninstallXXX Uninstall anapplication from “My Games” IsXXXInstalled Check to see if the specificapplication is installed in “My Games” GetXXX Return the list ofapplications in “My Games”

TABLE 3 Exemplary API Functions Function Description AddLegacyTitleInstall a legacy application into the game activity center. AddWebTitleInstall a web application into the game activity center.AddSupportedTitle Install a supported application into the game activitycenter. GetMyGamesApps Retrieves list of applications in the gameactivity center. GetMyGames- Retrieves list of supported applications inthe SupportedApps game activity center. GetMyGames- Retrieves list oflegacy applications in the game LegacyApps activity center. GetMyGames-Retrieves list of installed web applications in the WebApps gameactivity center. IsAppInstalled Checks to see if the specified app isinstalled in the game activity center as any kind of app.IsLegacyTitleInstalled Checks to see if the specified app is installedin the game activity center as a legacy app. IsWebTitleInstalled Checksto see if the specified app is installed in the game activity center asa web app. UninstallWebTitle Removes a web title from the game activitycenter. UninstallSupported- Removes a supported title from the gameTitle activity center. UninstallLegacyTitle Removes a legacy title fromthe game activity center.

Example 33 Exemplary Schema for Use with Application Metadata

FIGS. 27-31 specify an exemplary XML schema 2700 for use withapplication metadata. In the example, the metadata is stored in an “ADF”(e.g., a file with the .adf file extension).

In the example, the schema specifies that the metadata can include anapplication identifier identifying an application installable in anapplication activity center (e.g., “applicationid”), a displayabledescription of one or more tasks performable for the application wheninstalled into the application activity center (e.g., “description” for“taskdata”), data indicating how to invoke the one or more tasksperformable for the application when installed into the applicationactivity center (e.g., “invokedata” for “taskdata”), and arguments forthe one or more tasks performable for the application when installed inthe application activity center (e.g., “arguments” for “taskdata”).Additional, fewer, or different elements can be defined for the schema.

Example 34 Exemplary Schema for Use with Computer Game Metadata

FIGS. 32-35 specify an exemplary XML schema 3200 for use withapplication metadata. In the example, the metadata is stored in a “GDF”(e.g., a file with the .gdf file extension) and extends the “ADF” schemaof FIGS. 27-31. Additional, fewer, or different elements can be definedfor the schema.

Example 35 Exemplary Schema for Use with Computer Game Metadata

FIGS. 36-38 specify an exemplary metadata 3600 for a particular gameapplication called “Freecell.” Metadata for other applications willdiffer accordingly.

Example 36 Exemplary Schema for Use with an Application Manifest

FIGS. 39-41 specify an excerpt of an exemplary XML schema for use withan application manifest. In the example, the manifest can specifyapplication metadata by referring to an “ADF” or “GDF” file, such as onedescribed in FIGS. 36-38 or any other application metadata file. Byincorporating a reference to the metadata file in the manifest, themetadata file is considered part of the software package for theapplication and can be distributed therein. Additional, fewer, ordifferent elements can be defined for the schema.

Alternatives

Having described and illustrated the principles of our invention withreference to various embodiments, it will be recognized that theembodiments can be modified in arrangement and detail without departingfrom such principles. It should be understood that the programs,processes, or methods described herein are not related or limited to anyparticular type of computer apparatus, unless indicated otherwise.

In any of the examples depicting user interfaces, such interfaces can beimplemented as graphical user interfaces (GUIs). Although iconicrepresentations of programs are shown, in any of the examples, box art(e.g., an apparent photograph of the physical box for the software) forthe application can be used instead.

Although some examples are shown in general purpose computers, thetechnologies can be alternatively applied to console game scenarios.

Various types of general purpose or specialized computer apparatus maybe used with or perform operations in accordance with the teachingsdescribed herein. Elements of the illustrated embodiment shown insoftware may be implemented in hardware and vice versa.

Techniques from one or more examples can be incorporated into any of theother examples.

In view of the many possible embodiments to which the principles of ourinvention may be applied, it should be recognized that the detailedembodiments are illustrative only and should not be taken as limitingthe scope of our invention. Rather, we claim as our invention all suchembodiments as may come within the scope and spirit of the followingclaims and equivalents thereto.

1. A software system operable for execution at a computer and encoded ona physical computer-readable medium, the software system comprising: anoperating system shell operable to present an application-centricgraphical user interface presentation, the application-centric graphicaluser interface presentation comprising: an area of the interfacecomprising graphical depictions of a plurality of executableapplications, wherein the area is limited to executable applicationsselected to match a predetermined application type, and displayed in thearea regardless of their location on or off of the computer, at least aportion of the graphical depictions being at least partly based uponinformation obtained via the Internet; a plurality of selectable taskitems performable for the executable applications and selected to bedisplayed based upon the predetermined application type, the pluralityof selectable task items including: executing one or more of theexecutable applications, continuing a last saved game, initiating one ormore of the executable applications in a multi-user mode, initiating oneor more of the executable applications in the multi-user mode with atleast a specifically identified list of other users, review updates forone or more of the executable applications, install updates for one ormore of the executable applications, view saved games for one or more ofthe executable applications, search for new games, visit an onlineforum, online community or online chat room for one or more of theexecutable applications, uninstall one or more of the executableapplications, go to a webpage for one or more of the executableapplications, check compatibility information for one or more of theexecutable applications, check security information for one or more ofthe executable applications, and view usage history for one or more ofthe executable applications, the usage history including when the one ormore executable applications was executed, how long the one or moreexecutable applications was executed, and how often the one or moreexecutable applications was executed; a recommended capability ratingfor a first application of the plurality of applications; a minimumcapability rating for the first application; a capability rating for thecomputer displayed with the recommended capability rating and theminimum capability rating; a plurality of connection quality indicationscorresponding to the connection quality of one or more other users, theone or more other users having installed at least one multi-playercapable gaming application that is also installed on the computer; and agraphical depiction of an application situation occurring when the firstapplication is saved; an information area, the information areadisplaying links to information made available within a threshold amountof time; and an application metadata store operable to store a pluralityof application metadata files indicative of information on a pluralityof associated applications.
 2. The software system of claim 1 whereinthe application-centric graphical user interface presentation presentsstatus information indicating whether remote users listed in a buddylist are now playing a selected game.
 3. The software system of claim 2wherein the application-centric graphical user interface presentationpresents an option to join the selected game played by the remote users.4. The software system of claim 1 wherein the application-centricgraphical user interface presentation presents an option to play aselected game with one or more remote users.
 5. The software system ofclaim 4 wherein electronic contact information for the one or moreremote users is stored in a contact database accessible by the operatingsystem shell.
 6. The software system of claim 5 wherein the system isoperable to contact the remote users and start the selected game withthe remote users as co-players.
 7. The software system of claim 1wherein the application metadata store is operable to store at least oneapplication metadata file for an application not yet installed at thecomputer.
 8. The software system of claim 7 wherein the applicationmetadata file for an application not yet installed at the computercomprises: a link to a location from which a demonstration version ofthe application can be obtained.
 9. The software system of claim 7wherein the application metadata file for an application not yetinstalled at the computer comprises: a link to a location from whichinformation about the application can be obtained.
 10. The softwaresystem of claim 7 wherein the application metadata file for anapplication not yet installed at the computer comprises: a link to alocation at which the application can be purchased electronically.
 11. Asoftware system operable for execution at a computer and encoded on aphysical computer-readable medium, the software system comprising:operating system means operable to present an application-centricgraphical user interface presentation, the application-centric graphicaluser interface presentation comprising: an area of the interfacecomprising graphical depictions of a plurality of executableapplications, wherein the area is limited to executable applicationsselected to match a predetermined application type, and displayed in thearea regardless of their location on or off of the computer; a pluralityof selectable task items performable for the executable applications andselected to be displayed based upon the predetermined application type;a recommended capability rating for a first application of the pluralityof executable applications; a minimum capability rating for the firstapplication; a capability rating for the computer; and a graphicaldepiction of an application situation occurring when the firstapplication is saved; and means operable to store a plurality ofapplication metadata files indicative of information on a plurality ofassociated applications.